Most American homes have a driveway out front. They serve multiple purposes, including car storage and makeshift basketball courts. What’s more, driveways play a large role in a home’s appearance. Adding a new one can really boost your home’s curb appeal and increase its value. It also makes it nicer to drive up to each day.
Driveways can be made from a wide variety of materials. Concrete and asphalt are both very popular. Some people choose gravel or pavers for a simpler DIY installation. When deciding on what type of material to use for your new driveway, you’ll want to keep a few things in mind.
Know What Is Involved in Removing the Existing Driveway
Before you decide to rip out your existing driveway, take some time to think about how you are going to dispose of it. This is not something you can simply put in a curbside container. In fact, many dumpster companies limit the weight of their containers, so you can’t just load them up with heavy materials like concrete or asphalt. A quick search for “concrete dumpster near me” will ensure you know where to turn when it comes time to get rid of the old driveway.
Decide if You Will Hire a Contractor or Do the Job Yourself
Many homeowners hire a contractor to construct a new driveway. This removes a lot of the pressure and helps ensure the job is done correctly and to code. However, others choose a DIY approach.
If you are planning to DIY your new driveway, be realistic about your skills. For example, pouring a concrete surface requires extensive preparation and background knowledge to provide good results. Even a small mistake during the pour can lead to cracks, dips, and crumbling. However, even a relatively simple-to-use material like gravel can be backbreaking to move by hand.
Think About How Long You Plan To Stay in Your Home
Houses are generally long-term investments. If you plan to be in the same location for many years, it makes sense to invest a little more in a nice driveway that will last for years. However, if you are planning to sell the home shortly, a cheaper material or resurfacing the existing one might make more sense.
Evaluate the Site Drainage and Grading
Proper grading will ensure that your driveway lasts for years without problems. Every site is a little different, so you should take time to evaluate any draining or water flow concerns. For example, a low spot may cause pooling, which could potentially erode a new surface. Filling it in will alleviate the problem. Drain tile or semi-permeable materials are other options that allow water to seep through the surface without pooling.
Review Any Neighborhood or HOA Restrictions
If you live in a neighborhood with construction restrictions, then you will want to take extra time to review these for any potential conflicts. This is most common when you have a homeowners association that places restrictive covenants on property use.
Some HOA rules may limit the type or color material you use, the length of your driveway, or what type of edging is allowed. Failure to follow community guidelines can result in hefty fines or, worse, the need to demo your brand-new driveway.
Be Realistic About Your Budget
This may be the single, largest factor that influences what materials you choose for your new driveway. A tight budget can steer you toward less expensive options, which may include resealing an existing surface or using gravel. On the other hand, if you have a generous budget for the project, you might decide to go all out on a natural stone surface.
The first step to getting a new driveway that enhances your home’s appearance is choosing an appropriate material for its construction. It’s a good idea to consider things such as how long you plan to stay in your home, what your budget allows for, and any HOA limitations when making your selection.